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Antarctica Discovery

  • January 9 – January 20, 2026
  • Pre-Tour: January 7 – January 10, 2026
  • Post-Tour: January 20 – January 23, 2026
From $12,199

per person based on double occupancy

  • DURATION

    12 Days
  • GROUP SIZE

    190

overview

Embark on an unforgettable odyssey, where discovery and adventure converge on the vast canvas of the Last Continent. Immerse yourself in stark and surprising landscapes that define this breathtaking region. As you traverse Antarctica's icy expanse, witness the majestic beauty of untouched vistas—a true testament to the raw power of nature. This once-in-a-lifetime journey offers up-close encounters with a diverse array of wildlife—from penguins waddling along the snow to fur seals lounging on ice floes—that call this pristine environment home. Every moment exploring this polar wilderness defines a unique and awe-inspiring experience.

tour map

tour highlights

– Cruise in elegance and comfort. Ocean Victory boasts a delicate balance between modern refinement and responsible travel. From the vessel's energy-efficient systems to its minimized carbon footprint, every detail has been meticulously crafted to ensure a minimal impact on the environments we explore.

– Get lost in luxury. Take advantage of the ship’s five-star amenities, including two hot tubs, spa, gym and spacious lounges.

– Dine in style. Savor exquisite cuisine in elegant dining spaces featuring floor-to-ceiling windows in both Panorama and Beagle Restaurants.

– Explore at leisure. Ocean Victory is well-equipped with Zodiac boats and a fleet of kayaks, allowing you to discover remote coastlines and wildlife-rich areas up close. Expert guides, scientists and lecturers seamlessly enrich the learning experience throughout the tour.

– Choose your own adventure. Join the optional Photography Program (for the duration of the departure) alongside an expert photographer for the opportunity to capture stunning polar images while honing techniques and building technical skills (participants must be experienced photographers). Kayaking enthusiasts can join the optional Sea Kayaking outing: a one-time opportunity to explore the outstanding grandeur and magical beauty of the polar expanse by kayak (participants must have prior kayaking experience). Optional activities have limited availability.

day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.†
Day 2: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina
Day 3: Ushuaia – Embarkation
Days 4-5: Drake Passage
Days 6-9: South Shetland Islands | Antarctic Peninsula
Days 10-11: Drake Passage
Day 12: Ushuaia – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.

†NOTE: Travel time from/to U.S. may take up to two days depending on flight schedules.

full itinerary

You are embarking on an adventure where daily activities will be determined by weather, opportunities to view wildlife, and other various elements that make up the incredibly diverse landscape. This itinerary is a general listing of activities and excursions that may happen during any part of the program.

†Travel time from/to U.S. may take up to two days depending on flight schedules.

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

Day 1: En Route from U.S.†

Friday, January 9, 2026

Day 2: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina

Saturday, January 10, 2026 (R)

Welcome to the world's southernmost city aptly known as El Fin del Mundo (“The End of the World”). Unwind at an exceptional property within the Cerro Alarkén Natural Reserve—a lush, nearly 250-acre protected forest.

This evening become acquainted with fellow travelers during a welcome reception, and share in the excitement of the journey yet to unfold.

Day 3: Ushuaia – Embarkation

Sunday, January 11, 2026 (B,D)

Wake to a morning at leisure. Relax at the hotel or independently explore the charming port town of Ushuaia on foot.

Those who are interested may choose to join the following optional excursion.

With a local English-speaking guide, take a four-hour bus tour (including round-trip transportation time) through Tierra del Fuego National Park with breaks to walk along short, marked trails. Drive out of town along the coastal road that offers wonderful views of the Beagle Channel towards the stunning and unique landscapes of the national park. With stops at Ensenada Bay, the Acigami Lake, the “Gazebo” viewpoint at Laguna Verde, and the legendary end of the Panamerican Highway at Lapataia Bay, you'll have opportunities to see a varied range of local flora and fauna. During this tour, the group will stop briefly at the visitors' center, which has a cafeteria for refreshments to purchase.

Late afternoon rejoin the group for a motor coach transfer to the port where your expedition vessel, Ocean Victory, awaits.

As embarkation begins take time to unpack and become familiar with your stateroom and the ship's welcoming public spaces. Cruising through Beagle Channel, stroll the exterior viewing deck to admire the polar scenery, keeping an eye out for active marine mammals and birdlife.

Before dinner meet your spirited expedition staff as they distribute your adventure gear (jackets and boots), and share details of the activities ahead.

Days 4-5: Drake Passage

Monday, January 12, 2026 - Tuesday, January 13, 2026 (B,L,D daily)

The following two days feature an exciting crossing through the Drake Passage, a legendary waterway where the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern Oceans converge. Named for 16th-century English privateer, Sir Francis Drake, this stretch of water is an ideal wildlife-spotting zone. Have binoculars in reach to look for dolphins and whales, as well as albatross, skuas and gulls.

Embrace valuable time as Ocean Victory becomes your home away from home amongst the backdrop of the pristine White Continent. Peruse the selection of books in the cozy library, connect with fellow travelers in the stylish lounge, or contemplate upon the unparalleled landscape from the outdoor viewing platform.

On board, fine dining is a priority. Enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared by talented chefs using a variety of techniques including cooking on hot stone. Between meals take advantage of the self-service coffee and tea facilities in the observation lounge, which are available 24/7.

In the evenings retire to your plush stateroom, a sanctuary of tranquility.

Days 6-9: South Shetland Islands | Antarctic Peninsula

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - Saturday, January 17, 2026 (B,L,D daily)

Emerging from the vastness of the open sea, we reach the South Shetland Islands and the bays and inlets of the Antarctic Peninsula—a playground of exploration and discovery. With the captain optimizing anchoring opportunities, the flexible daily itinerary presents an array of extraordinary experiences: Zodiac safaris through iceberg-laden waters, guided shore landings to historic sites and research stations, invigorating hikes, and comprehensive lectures and presentations. At this time of year, long daylight hours provide ample occasion to connect deeply to this magnificent destination.

Accompanied by the ship’s expert expedition team and scientists, each outing offers extensive insight into the region’s dramatic landscapes—millennia-old ice shelves, sheer cliff faces and untouched snowfields. Step ashore to witness bustling penguin rookeries, explore remnants of past explorations, and gain a deeper appreciation for ongoing scientific research. Zodiac cruises provide the chance to glide past towering icebergs and encounter the region’s remarkable wildlife, from seals basking on ice floes to whales surfacing in the frigid waters. While sightings of these incredible creatures remain at nature’s discretion, the staggering beauty of Antarctica’s raw and remote landscapes is assured.

Back on board Ocean Victory, leisure time is cherished between exhilarating escapades. Rejuvenate in one of two hot tubs, master a workout in the well-equipped fitness room, book a luxurious spa treatment (additional fee), or join an optional sea kayaking excursion (additional fee) to further explore Antarctica's grandeur and beauty up-close. The ultra-daring adventurer can brave an optional polar plunge—a brief yet invigorating dip into icy waters off the ship's activity platform, guaranteed to be an indelible hallmark of this Antarctic voyage.

Days 10-11: Drake Passage

Sunday, January 18, 2026 - Monday, January 19, 2026 (B,L,D daily)

As the expedition comes full circle, we retrace the route through the Drake Passage, recounting tales of exploration and discovery with fellow travelers. Engage in educational presentations by the ship's naturalists, enriching your understanding of this unblemished environment. Gather on deck for a last look at the endless panorama of ice and sea—a serene setting for retrospection and camaraderie.

The final evening on board partake in the crew's End of Voyage ceremonies that commemorate your accomplishment of touring the last remote frontier.

Day 12: Ushuaia – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.

Tuesday, January 20, 2026 (B)

After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  • 1 night luxury hotel accommodations (including breakfast) in Ushuaia prior to embarkation
  • 9 nights aboard Ocean Victory including all onboard meals (with select wines and beers at lunch and dinner)
  • 24-hour self-service coffee and tea facilities onboard
  • All scheduled landings and excursions listed in the itinerary (subject to weather and ice conditions)
  • An insulated waterproof/windproof expedition parka (yours to keep)
  • A pair of insulated rubber boots for shore landings for duration of the cruise (to be returned prior to disembarkation)
  • Access to a photographic trip log (shared with guests after the voyage via an online link)
  • All shipboard gratuities for the crew
  • All luggage porterage
  • All port fees
  • Transfers from the hotel to the ship on embarkation day
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

rates

Category Rate*
Albatros State Porthole (D): $12,199
French Balcony Suite (E): $14,499
Balcony State (C): $16,499
Grand Balcony State (B2): $17,499
Balcony Suite (B1): $19,499
Junior Suite (A): $21,499
Premium Suite: $24,199
Single (G): $18,499
Triple Porthole (F)(per person; triple occupancy): $9,899

Optional Activities
Tierra del Fuego Tour: $185 per person
Photography Program: $495 per person (must be reserved in advance)
Sea Kayaking: $345 per person (must be reserved on board)

Optional activities have limited availability. Sea Kayaking is weather permitting.

Rates are per person in U.S. dollars based on double occupancy except where noted as Triple Porthole (per person rate; triple occupancy) or Single. Triple and Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, airfare not included.

optional pre-tour

Buenos Aires

Experience the vibrant and sultry beauty of Buenos Aires, Argentina's sophisticated capital city. Rich historic sites, charming shops and restaurants, and welcoming locals create a notable setting for leisurely exploration.

Activity Level: 3

Full Itinerary

B = Breakfast, D = Dinner, S = Snack

Day +1: En Route from U.S.†

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Day +2: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Thursday, January 8, 2026 (D)

Upon arrival settle into your five-star accommodations with time to relax and freshen up.A thrilling evening awaits! Gather with fellow travelers for a gastronomic experience and live performance at one of Buenos Aires' most iconic theaters. Amidst the opulent surroundings dine on a tantalizing three-course dinner while musicians and performers prepare for the show. As passionate tango music ignites, the stage comes alive with a mesmerizing tango performance. Be amazed by the intensity and precision on display by the dancers, vocalists and live orchestra as they offer an unforgettable introduction to the city's cultural heartbeat.

Day +3: Buenos Aires

Friday, January 9, 2026 (B,S)

After breakfast set out on a panoramic tour to discover some of the city's most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks.

Travel through the trendy Palermo district, known for its colorful street art, chic boutiques and lush parks. Continuing to Recoleta—Buenos Aires' most glamorous neighborhood—stop at Recoleta Cemetery. This serene and historic burial ground—with more than 6,400 statues, mausoleums, sarcophagi, coffins and crypts—is the final resting place for many of Argentina’s most celebrated sons and daughters, including Eva Perón. 

En route to the Plaza de Mayo pass by 9th of July Avenue, known as the world's widest boulevard. A stop at the magnificent Colón Theatre offers the perfect opportunity for photos. This world-renowned opera house is a symbol of Buenos Aires' rich cultural heritage.

Visit Café Tortoni to sample a traditional ham and cheese snack called the porteño. Afterward return to the Plaza de Mayo to see the Casa Rosada (Government House), the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Cabildo—a present-day museum that used to serve as a government building during colonial times.

The remainder of the day is at leisure. Visit museums or galleries, or simply wander the charming streets for final moments to appreciate the city's European-style architecture and welcoming shops and cafés. This evening enjoy dinner at one of the city's many fantastic restaurants or explore the Buenos Aires nightlife, perhaps even stumbling upon an impromptu tango performance.

Day +4: Buenos Aires | Flight to Ushuaia | Main Program Begins

Saturday, January 10, 2026 (B)

After breakfast take the complimentary group transfer to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery for a flight to Ushuaia to join the group for the main program.

†Travel time from/to U.S. may take up to two days depending on flight schedules.

NOTE: The internal flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia is not included in the pre-tour price.

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This pre-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. However, a local tour guide will be with the group throughout the stay in Buenos Aires.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  • 2 nights hotel accommodations with breakfast each morning
  • Special 3-course dinner and tango performance
  • Panoramic city tour of Buenos Aires
  • All gratuities and porterage
  • All airport and hotel transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Rates

Category Rate*
Double: $2,499
Single: $3,199

*Pre-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, airfare not included.

optional post-tour

Iguazú Falls

Hold on to your hat while you experience the thundering roar and huge clouds of spray from one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Spanning more than two miles, Iguazú Falls is four times the width of Niagara Falls and includes 275 separate falls.

Activity Level: 3

Full Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Day 12: Flight to Buenos Aires

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Upon arrival at Aeroparque Jorge Newbery take the group transfer to the hotel for a restful evening.

Day 13: Flight to Iguazú Falls | Guided Tour

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 (B,L,D)

After an early breakfast take the group transfer to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery for the included two-hour flight to Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport.

Upon arrival embark on a guided tour of the Argentinian side of Iguazú Falls. Hear the thunder of the crashing waters of the largest waterfall system in the world and feel the vapor against your skin. Choose from three different paths (depending on desired activity level): the lower path, the higher path and the “Devil’s Throat.” Listen as the local guide enlightens you about the geology, flora, fauna and local history of this amazing natural wonder.

Accommodations for this post-tour are at the Gran Meliá Iguazú—the only property with the distinction of being located within the park.

Day 14: Iguazú Falls Tour

Thursday, January 22, 2026 (B)

Today includes a second guided visit to the Argentinian side of the falls. Alternatively join one of the following optional full- or half-day excursions (additional fees apply for each option) or enjoy leisure time on your own.

Gran Aventura Safari Boat Tour—Argentina Side of the Falls
This afternoon embark in open trucks that provide unobstructed views of the scenery along the trail and observe the various flora and fauna of the jungle. Then climb aboard secure and efficient inflatable bi-motor boats to cruise up the river through the canyon. At Devil's Throat the captain will navigate through the falls for a quick and refreshing shower.

Brazilian Falls Tour—Brazil Side of the Falls
—Subject to change due to potential Visa requirements.—
Visit the Brazilian side of the falls during this highly active walking tour. Follow paths alongside the cascades, continuing along the catwalk that leads towards the bottom of Devil's Throat. Return to the road by elevator and continue to the restaurant for lunch. Includes transportation to/from the park, park entrance fees and lunch.

Brazilian Falls Tour & Macuco Safari Boat Tour—Brazil Side of the Falls
—Subject to change due to potential Visa requirements.—
This full-day tour includes the active walking tour described above followed by a trail tour aboard open wagons towed by Jeeps, providing unobstructed views of the scenery along the trail. Through the jungle multi-lingual guides point out examples of the flora and fauna of the park. Next board secure and efficient inflatable bi-motor boats for a water safari. Before embarkation guests receive life vests and plastic containers to protect personal devices and cameras. At Devil's Throat the captain maneuvers the boat in order to get close enough to provide guests with a brief shower. Includes transportation to/from the park and park entrance fees.

Day 15: Iguazú Falls | Flight to Buenos Aires | Depart for U.S.

Friday, January 23, 2026 (B)

After breakfast take the complimentary group transfer to Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport for flights to next airports and connections to home.

NOTE: The internal flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires is not included in the post-tour price. The internal round-trip flight between Buenos Aires and Iguazú Falls is included in the post-tour price.

Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  •  
  • 1 night hotel accommodations in Buenos Aires and 2 nights luxury accommodations within Iguazú National Park
  • 3 breakfasts, 1 box lunch and 1 dinner 
  • 2 guided tours of Iguazú Falls
  • All gratuities and porterage
  • All airport and hotel transfers
  • Internal round-trip airfare between Buenos Aires and Iguazú Falls
  •  

Rates

Category Rate*
Double: $3,499
Single: $4,999

Optional Excursions
Rates are valid if excursion is pre-booked 21+ days prior to departure date.

Gran Aventura Safari Boat Tour (Argentina Side of the Falls): $110 per person
Brazilian Falls Tour†† (Brazil Side of the Falls): $145 per person
Brazilian Falls Tour & Macuco Safari Boat Tour†† (Brazil Side of the Falls): $240 per person

††Subject to change due to potential Visa requirements.

*Post-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, airfare not included.

Travel Insurance

We recommend you look into travel insurance immediately after making your deposit. It's important to note that some coverage can be linked to timing of your initial payment.

Orbridge's travel insurance partner, Redpoint, has a specific policy option to meet your needs. Visit redpointtravelprotection.com/partner/orbridgeripcord for a quote and more information. To speak with a Redpoint agent directly, call (415) 481-0610 and their team will be glad to assist.

Booking Flights

Our air partners can make flight arrangements for guests. In the event of flight delays and/or schedule changes, they will provide guests with personalized assistance. To book flight reservations with our air partners, contact (206) 319-5011 and select the option for your destination to discuss flight details with our air colleagues. Upon ticketing, a fee will be charged.

your guide(s)

Orbridge Expedition Leader

On this program, you will have the benefit of an expert Expedition Leader with extensive local knowledge and experience as a cultural, historic, and naturalist interpreter. With their contribution of exceptional know-how and enthusiasm adding depth to your experience, enjoy the cultures and locations you explore with added confidence, understanding, and appreciation. 

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